Questioning my decision

since september of last year I have been legitimately thinking about lap band surgery. Recently, my psych evaluator suggested I read "The Experts Guide to Weight loss surgery" and now I am in limbo. I thought that lap band was not as risky as this book makes it out to be. There were things talked about in there such as eroding, slippage, rejection, and hernias. I sometimes am not sure if these risks, no matter how rare they are, are worth having a surgery for? Also, I question the maintenance level with lap band. I honestly feel this is the only wls choice for me because it is the one I feel most comfortable with since it is reversible. Is there anyone that could help me with how they felt and if they have any insight into these situations? I cannot make such a big decision without hearing from people that have actually gone through it.

-Jennifer

 I'm not an expert just had surgery in november but for me it helps to weigh out the pros and cons on both sides. I dont know how much weight you have to lose. but I would look at the complications with your weight or possible complications if you dont have surgery. Ask yourself if you dont have surgery can you loose the weight on your own? Also ask which complications are worse the complications of your weight or of the surgery?

It's definitely not "reversible," I can tell you this for sure. It's removable... and that doesn't mean the same thing.  It's been over 6 years since I had my band removed and I've spent too much time in a great deal of pain from the damage it did to my body.  I believed the "safer and less invasive" sales pitch... and then found out what a lie it is.

The band isn't a good long term option. It really and truly isn't.

Please read the Revisions forum. It will illustrate just how often people need revisions FROM the lapband to another weight loss surgery.

Discuss all your concerns with a WL surgeon. Everything has risks. Your behavior after surgery as far as adhering to the rules to follow afterward can have alot to do with potential "issues". A WL surgeon who is familiar with the procedures you are considering can help you. Be up front and frank about your WL and eating issues. Every procedure is a tool. You have to "work it". No one does this perfectly but it's a conscious daily decision.

Jennifer,

You are right, all those items you listed are potential side effects of the band........and the above poster is correct the band is "removable" however there may be damage and the stomach doesn't always return to it's previous state so technically not what I would consider reversible...of course once again it depends on the individual.....I know someone who had it removed and had no issues after removal.

I was more concerned with my Surgeons stats on those items you listed above rather than the general lists or others experience with their surgeon. Surgeon skill has alot to do with the level of complications in my opinion..and your surgeon should share with you his or her stats. Total confidence in my surgeon for me made the difference.

For me I have never reached my goal weight but did come within 10 pounds of it....total 90 pounds at one point. Would I do it all again, yes...was it hard work yes.....I know I would be much bigger if I didn't have it. Of course when I had my band the surgical options weren't as many as they are now so do what is best for you........only you can decide.

Good luck....

Michele

Bamd complications are far from rare! Band complications are extremely commom. Why do you think you hardly ever see anyone 5 years out with a band? And on the few occasions that you do.......they have usually had to have a 2nd surgery!

Reversible? No. The band is NOT reversible! It is removable, but not reversable. You can have it removed, but the damage usually remains. :-(

The leader at our WLS group (connected to the surgeon's office and he performs various WLS surgery types) ..said that the national average of revisions on lap bands is around 25%. This includes slips, leaking port/port flips and revisions to another WLS surgical option, removals, etc). You should ask your surgeon what his patients experience and ask about national numbers as well.